Gladwyne, Pennsylvania

Gladwyne, Pennsylvania is a suburban community located in Lower Merion Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. It is one of the wealthiest areas in the United States, known for its historic sites, scenic landscapes, and affluent residents.

History

Gladwyne was originally known as Merion Square. In the late 19th century, the name was changed to Gladwyne to avoid confusion with other nearby towns. The area has a rich history, with many of its buildings and structures dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The Merion Friends Meeting House, built in 1695, is one of the oldest Quaker meeting houses in the country.

Geography

Gladwyne is located on the historic Philadelphia Main Line, a series of affluent Philadelphia suburban villages stretching from the city limits to Paoli. The community is characterized by its rolling hills, wooded areas, and historic homes. The Schuylkill River forms the community's eastern boundary.

Demographics

As of the 2010 census, Gladwyne had a population of approximately 4,050 residents. The community is predominantly white, with a median household income significantly higher than the national average.

Education

Gladwyne is served by the Lower Merion School District. The district operates one elementary school in the community, Gladwyne Elementary School. Secondary students attend Welsh Valley Middle School and Harriton High School, both located in nearby communities.

Notable people

Several notable individuals have resided in Gladwyne, including Kobe Bryant, who spent part of his childhood in the community, and M. Night Shyamalan, a filmmaker known for his work in the thriller genre.

See also

• Lower Merion Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
• Philadelphia Main Line
• Merion Friends Meeting House